Brockville aims to host 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games

Brockville could once again play host to a significant sporting event in 2027.

At their regular meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 19, the Brockville General Committee received a report prepared by Kelly Brintnell, tourism advisor, and Jennifer Devlin, festival and events coordinator, which calls for the City of Brockville to submit an official bid proposal to host the 2027 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. Following the successful 2010 55+ Games, the Ministry of Sport has once again called upon Brockville to host.

Brintnell shared, “It was because of the successful games in Brockville in 2010 that the ministry approached us and encouraged us to put forward another bid. All of the economic impact we’ll be expecting from the event will be through things like local accommodation, as well as visitors checking out local attractions and dining at our restaurants.” 

This three-day event, established to promote active living among seniors, is expected to draw up to 1,400 participants and generate an economic impact of $1.5 million for the city of Brockville. In early 2026, a planning committee would be organized to oversee and facilitate the entire event.

According to Britnell, part of the incentive to host events like this is to build up Brockville’s event portfolio. “This is really important to attract more sports tourism opportunities and we really think this could enhance the City of Brockville’s reputation as a premiere event destination.”   

The costs to host the event are estimated at around $345,000, with funding primarily sourced from a Ontario Ministry of Sport Hosting Grant, registration fees from attendees, and local sponsorships.  

Madame Chair Severson shared her thoughts on the bid.

“I think this is an exciting report and when you hear that we’ve been invited on the strength and success from the event in 2010, I think we should say kudos to a community of our size.” 

She continued, “I think the world is really starting to understand the economic impact of events like this in your community. The ‘Taylor Swift effect’ I think is eye-opening to for a  lot of people to realize that just a concert can bring that much economic activity into your community.”

Having been approved by the General Committee, the recommendation will then pass to Brockville City Council. With their endorsement, the City of Brockville can move forward with submitting the bid to the Ontario Ministry of Sport.